Fifteenth Century Prose and Verse

"Fifteenth Century Prose and Verse" by Alfred W. Pollard is a collection of English literature written in the late 19th century. The volume aims to showcase a diverse array of works from the 15th century, including poetry, prose, and drama, highlighting significant figures such as John Lydgate, Thomas Occleve, and William Caxton. With an emphasis on both well-known and lesser-known pieces, it provides insight into the literary trends and thematic concerns of this often-overlooked period in English literature. The beginning of the volume introduces a preface by the editor, Alfred W. Pollard, in which he acknowledges the blending of various works within the collection and outlines the rationale behind including pieces from adjacent periods. He discusses the need for modern spelling to enhance accessibility for contemporary readers and reflects on the literary history leading up to the 15th century, including the influence of Chaucer. Following the preface, the first excerpt presents John Lydgate’s narrative of the Siege of Harfleur and the Battle of Agincourt, highlighting significant events and characters involved, while capturing the essence of the historical context this era presents. Through this framework, the opening sets the stage for the rich exploration of 15th-century English prose and verse that follows. (This is an automatically generated summary.)